Kathrine Frich
The Russian leader told Kim that their military and economic cooperation would continue
Global diplomacy often looks like a complicated game of high-stakes matchmaking.
Leaders make bold gestures to win over new friends, sometimes ignoring the warnings of their oldest allies. But those heavily promoted new relationships do not always turn out to be exclusive.
Shifting loyalties
President Donald Trump recently made a major concession in Asia to protect a personal connection. He scaled back vital military exercises with South Korea, citing his famously close bond with North Korean leadership as the primary reason.
However, Pyongyang appears to be looking in a completely different direction right now.
While the American president pushes for warmer relations and scales back defenses, North Korea is actively deepening its strategic alliance with Russia.
A historic friendship
According to state news agency KCNA cited by Moscow Times, Kim Jong Un recently sent a warm message to President Vladimir Putin.
The note marked the anniversary of independence from Japanese colonial rule. Kim used the opportunity to highlight a “history of common struggle for justice and precious traditions of friendship.”
Putin sent his own congratulations for the 81st anniversary of Tokyo surrendering in World War Two.
Beyond simple greetings
The Russian leader told Kim that their military and economic cooperation would continue “in all the sectors,” according to Reuters.
That partnership has moved far beyond holiday letters. Reuters noted that Pyongyang is currently deploying troops and weapons to help Russia fight against Ukraine.
To celebrate the liberation anniversary, the Russian ship Pallada arrived at Wonsan port for a goodwill visit on Saturday.
North Korean provincial officials and Russian embassy staff gathered to greet the vessel, KCNA reported.
Rising regional tensions
Meanwhile, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung tried to use the holiday to call for regional peace. He urged the North to open a dialogue and replace their old armistice with a formal “peace regime.”
Pyongyang completely rejected those peace overtures. Instead, North Korean officials criticized joint military drills as hostile provocations.
Putin also stirred up more regional tension on Thursday. He visited a disputed island off the coast of Hokkaido, drawing immediate condemnation from Japan, Reuters reported.
Sources: Reuters, KCNA, Moscow Times
